Nashville education union backs John Ray Clemmons in city's mayoral race

The city's education union is backing Rep. John Ray Clemmons in the upcoming August mayoral election.

Clemmons, a Nashville Democrat, announced in a news release Thursday the Metro Nashville Education Association Political Action Committee endorsed his campaign to become the next mayor.

MNEA is the union voice that represents Metro Nashville Public School teachers.

"As a proud MNPS parent, I am honored to receive the endorsement of Nashville’s teachers," Clemmons said in the release.

Clemmons is one of several leading challengers to unseat Nashville Mayor David Briley, along with Councilman John Cooper and retired Vanderbilt University professor Carol Swain.

Clemmons said as a parent and public servant, his support of the city's schools is his top priority.

"I am prepared to lead and make the tough decisions necessary to fully fund our schools, support our educators, and provide every child across Nashville with a high-quality education," he said. "I am truly thankful for the support of MNEA and look forward to working together for the benefit of all students in the years to come."

Education is a leading issue in this year's mayoral race, especially after a contentious past year with the school board and Briley calling for more oversight of the board. 

As well, teachers have protested and lobbied Metro Council for more pay, a campaign that failed on Tuesday night with the city's leaders voting against a property tax increase that would have put more funding into schools. 

Clemmons has also received six other endorsements, according to his campaign. The list includes numerous labor unions.

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Reach Jason Gonzales at jagonzales@tennessean.com and on Twitter @ByJasonGonzales.